JEDEC Releases CAMM2: The New Standard for Memory Modules

JEDEC, the standards body for the microelectronics industry, has recently published a new JESD318 Compression Attached Memory Module (CAMM2) Common Standard. This standard outlines the electrical and mechanical requirements for Compression-Attached Memory Modules.

The JESD318 CAMM2 standard covers two types of modules: Double Data Rate, Synchronous DRAM Compression-Attached Memory Modules (DDR5 SDRAM CAMM2s) and Low Power Double Data Rate, Synchronous DRAM Compression-Attached Memory Modules (LPDDR5/5X SDRAM CAMM2s). These modules are designed to cater to different use cases. DDR5 CAMM2s are intended for performance notebooks and mainstream desktops, while LPDDR5/5X CAMM2s target a broader range of notebooks and certain server market segments.

While the JESD318 CAMM2 standard defines a common connector design for both DDR5 and LPDDR5/5X, it is important to note that the pinouts for each module differ. This intentional variation in mounting procedures between DDR5 and LPDDR5/5X CAMM2s ensures that a module cannot be mounted where it should not go, allowing for different motherboard designs.

The JESD318 CAMM2 standard also supports stackable CAMM2s, including dual-channel (DC) and single-channel (SC) configurations. By splitting the dual-channel CAMM2 connector lengthwise into two single-channel CAMM2 connectors, each connector half can elevate the CAMM2 to a different level. This scalability from single-channel and dual-channel configurations to future multi-channel setups promises a significant boost in memory capacity.

Version 1.0.2 of the JESD318 CAMM2 standard was officially published in November 2023. Mian Quddus, the Chairman of JEDEC's Board of Directors, expressed the organization's commitment to serving the industry with innovative standards. Tom Schnell, JEDEC's CAMM Task Group Chairman, highlighted the versatility and modularity options offered by the CAMM2 standard, positioning it to support and drive next-generation products.

The JESD318 CAMM2 standard is available for download from the JEDEC website. This standard was developed by committee JC-45, which focuses on standards for DRAM modules, cards, and socket interfaces, addressing various memory design and manufacturing issues for commercial applications.

Image: Samsung's Low Power Compression Attached Memory Module (LPCAMM)

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